The Decemberists @ The Metro, Sydney 19.01.10

As someone who starts most days with The Infanta blasting from the stereo in order to shake the cobwebs and head once more into the breach, it's hard to overstate the excitement of filming The Decemberists' recent Sydney gig at The Metro. (Let's gently put aside the fact that they did not play that song live, and move swiftly along. Disappointed? You have no idea.)

Fans are drawn to a band like The Decemberists for a multitude of very personal reasons. While they do not often speak directly to the human condition, they sweep us along with such an array of characters, so richly drawn and acutely observed, that we feel enmeshed in the fabric of their lives, which in turn reflect on our own experiences.

Musically, whether snared by the rich, faux-medieval hooks or rousing chamber pop choruses, the incredibly dense, multi-layered narratives of Colin Meloy's lyrics or just the downright soul-stirring rhythm section that constructs crescendos like no other, this is a band that has carved out a unique place in people's hearts.

And if all that isn't enough, they do a brilliant cover of The Go-Betweens 'Bye Bye Pride'!

WATCH NOW!

Paul Hannigan

Animal Collecive @ The Metro, Sydney 11.12.09

They may have stepped into the wider critical spotlight with the release of their eighth studio album, Merriweather Post Pavillion, but when it comes to their live show, the Maryland crew prefer to keep us resolutely in the dark. Of course this makes shooting a gig more than a little problematic.  No matter. Because through the lacey blackness on stage, punctuated here and there by the occasional flash of fluorescence, emanates a noise so assuredly unique, so compellingly complete, that all you can do is close your eyes and let it carry you off to whatever fantastical place it is that produces stuff this good.

So sure, take a look at the gig, there's some nice moments that let you know what it's like to see a band at the peak of their powers. But above all, turn it up and let this splendid wall of sound break over you and insinuate itself into your memory forever.

WATCH NOW!

Paul Hannigan

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